Pod on Purpose

In this episode, Phil Welch discusses with Simon the evolving landscape of mathematics and computing education, the impact of AI, and how to inspire students’ passion for STEM subjects. It’s not just about numbers on a test or lines of code in a project; it’s about students’ curiosity, effort and questions driving real understanding and innovation. The conversation also explores innovative teaching methods, the role of competitions and the exciting careers that stem from a love of maths, highlighting how maths and computing shape modern technology, careers and everyday life. Ultimately, it shows that students aren’t just learning content—they are the ones who make these subjects count in the real world.Key Topics: The balance between the constancy of math and the dynamic nature of computingHow AI is transforming teaching and future career opportunitiesThe impact of social media and celebrity educators on making math more popularNotable 'light bulb' moments in teaching math, such as the power of compounding and right/wrong answersThe connection between math, art, and nature through ratios like the Fibonacci sequenceStrategies for inspiring students at all levels, from those seeking just a grade to future PhDsThe diverse career paths enabled by a strong foundation in math, including finance, economics, and data scienceThe importance of a collaborative, approachable teaching team and extracurricular maths competitions

This podcast episode explores the concept of enrichment in education, focusing on how extracurricular activities, sports, and performance arts contribute to student development. The discussion highlights the importance of creating an ecosystem of opportunities that fosters resilience, teamwork, and personal growth. The guests share insights on how structured programmes can instil grit and perseverance in students, as well as success stories that demonstrate the impact of these enrichment activities on student lives.Takeaways Enrichment is about creating an ecosystem of opportunities for students.Extracurricular activities help develop transferable skills beyond academics.Sports teach discipline and teamwork through structured pathways.Performance arts build resilience and confidence in students.A well-structured extracurricular programme allows for equitable opportunities.Grit and perseverance can be cultivated through diverse experiences.Students can excel in non-academic areas, showcasing their capabilities.Success stories highlight the impact of enrichment on student growth.Enrichment activities deepen subject knowledge and critical thinking.Creating a safe environment encourages students to explore and take risks.Linkshttps://www.alice-smith.edu.my/learn/exploration-pathways

In this engaging podcast episode, Anne-Marie Francis shares her journey and passion for drama education, discussing how her early experiences ignited her love for the performing arts. She highlights the unique emotional connection that drama fosters among students, the importance of creating a supportive environment, and the transferable skills that drama education imparts. Anne-Marie also delves into the roles behind the scenes, the balance between academics and creativity, and her recommendations for memorable productions, emphasising the broader impact of drama on students' lives.Takeaways Drama education fosters a unique emotional connection among students.Creating a supportive environment is crucial for student success.Drama teaches transferable skills applicable in various life situations.Resilience is built through character work and teamwork in drama.Stage management roles develop leadership and organizational skills.Drama students often excel in interviews and professional settings.Engaging in drama enhances social connections and empathy.A balance of creative subjects enriches academic experiences.Memorable productions can inspire a love for the arts.Drama is not just about acting; it encompasses various skills.Links:'Hire a former theatre kid', Josh Groban: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C85SaYbvio-/?igsh=MTQ4YmJiaXZyaWhmZw==https://www.alice-smith.edu.my

Tom McCulloch, Head of Geography at Alice Smith School, discusses innovative teaching methods, the importance of enthusiasm in education, and the integration of real-world learning and sustainability into the geography curriculum. He shares his experiences with fieldwork, the role of parents in education and his transition from Langley Park School for Boys to Alice Smith School in Malaysia, highlighting the exciting opportunities for students to explore geography beyond the classroom.Takeaways Geography connects with history, enriching student learning.Innovative and enthusiastic teaching methods can effectively engage and inspire students.The value of a forward-thinking geography curriculum.Real-world learning and fieldwork experiences in geography is essential for student engagement.Sustainability is a key focus in the geography curriculum.Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/geography_in_action/?hl=enhttps://www.youtube.com/@GeographyInAction/[email protected]

In this episode, Simon Jones speaks with Aaron Moniz and Scott Jamieson from Inspire Citizens about their work in global citizenship education at Alice Smith School. They discuss the importance of the Sustainable Development Goals, the role of whole-school programming, and how to engage various stakeholders in the educational process. The conversation highlights the need for intentional curriculum design that incorporates global citizenship principles, as well as ongoing collaboration with schools like Alice Smith to create meaningful learning experiences for pupils.TakeawaysInspire Citizens focuses on developing global citizenship in schools.The Sustainable Development Goals provide a framework for schools to align their missions.Curriculum design is essential to ensure all pupils have access to global citizenship education.Engaging stakeholders is crucial for building a culture of global citizenship.Whole-school programming takes time and commitment to implement effectively.Intentionality in teaching can enhance pupil engagement and learning outcomes.Global citizenship education can be integrated into existing curricula without being an add-on.Collaboration with community partners enriches the learning experience for pupils.Evidence of learning and impact is important for sustaining global citizenship initiatives.The future of education requires adapting to the needs of a globalised world.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.myInspire Citizens website: https://inspirecitizens.org/Podcast episode. Empathy to Impact https://empathytoimpact.transistor.fm/This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

Neil Moggan and Richard Stockings from Future Action explain how the school is supporting students to perform under pressure in sport and beyond through innovative wellbeing programmes.Links:Latest blogs with parent resources:https://blog.alice-smith.edu.my/optimising-performance-and-wellbeing-in-school-sport-a-polyvagal-informed-approach-at-the-alice-smith-schoolhttps://blog.alice-smith.edu.my/psychological-safety-and-thriving-under-pressure-insights-from-sports-for-parentshttps://www.futureaction.net/post/beyond-the-game-at-alice-smith-school-helping-young-people-perform-under-pressure-on-and-off-the

In this podcast episode, Simon Jones chats with Rebecca and Lynn to explore the concept of concept-based learning in education. They discuss the importance of pedagogy, the application of concept-based learning across various subjects, and how it fosters more profound understanding and transferable skills in students. The conversation highlights real-world applications, assessment methods, and teachers' role as learning facilitators. They also emphasise the significance of involving parents in the educational process and the ongoing journey of innovation in teaching practices.TakeawaysConcept-based learning focuses on deeper understanding rather than rote memorisation.Pedagogy is crucial in how teachers support student learning.Concepts can be applied across all subjects in education.Real-world applications of concepts enhance student engagement.Assessment should focus on generalisations and understanding rather than just facts.Teachers are shifting from knowledge deliverers to facilitators of learning.Involving parents in the learning process is essential for student success.Concepts are timeless and can be applied to various contexts.Inquiry-based learning encourages curiosity and active participation.Collaboration among teachers enhances the learning experience.Links onlineSchool website: www.alice-smith.edu.myThis episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency

In this podcast episode, Simon interviews Hyeinn Cecilia Roh, who shares her journey from attending Alice Smith School to Loughborough University to her current role at an international humanitarian organisation. Cecilia discusses her academic pursuits in gender studies, her experiences working in humanitarian aid in Yemen and Iraq, and the importance of believing in oneself and learning from mistakes. She emphasises the significance of collaboration and the impact of education and support from teachers in shaping her career path.TakeawaysCecilia felt a strong sense of belonging at Alice Smith School.Her passion for gender equality led her to pursue a master's degree in Gender, Development, and Globalisation at LSE.Her work focuses on safe migration and supporting internally displaced people.Sustainability and long-term development are crucial in humanitarian work.Cecilia's sense of justice motivated her to enter the field of humanitarian aid.Believing in oneself is essential for success in any career.Pushing beyond perceived limits can lead to incredible opportunities.Mistakes are valuable learning experiences in professional growth.Collaboration with diverse individuals enhances personal and professional development.Education and supportive teachers play a vital role in shaping one's career.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

In this conversation, Year 13 students Liam and Mei discuss their post-school decisions with Nicola Scott, Higher Education & Careers Counsellor, including their chosen universities and courses. They share their feelings about the transition to university life, the impact of AI on their career choices, and the essential skills they believe will be important for future success. The importance of real-world experience and how it prepares them for their future careers is also highlighted, along with advice for younger students navigating their own educational pathways.TakeawaysMei plans to study film at Lancaster University.Liam is heading to Erasmus for International Economics.Both students feel nervous about the transition to university.Visiting universities helped them make informed decisions.AI has not heavily impacted their course choices yet.Organisation skills are crucial for university success.Resilience is key to overcoming challenges in education.Real-world experience is vital for understanding career paths.Students today have more options than previous generations.Choosing a university should be based on personal preference, not external pressure.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

In this podcast episode, Li-Kai Chen and Sian May discuss global educational trends and their implications for children. They explore the importance of personalised learning, competency-based education, the role of evidence in shaping curricula, and the significance of teacher quality. The conversation also touches on the challenges of parenting in a rapidly changing educational landscape and the importance of community engagement in education.Key TakeawaysGlobal education trends are accelerating existing practices.Personalised learning is becoming more attainable with technology.Competency-based learning focuses on skills over content.Evidence-based education is crucial for continuous improvement.Quality teaching remains the most significant factor in student success.Recruiting and retaining quality educators is essential for effective learning.Wellbeing is a critical component of education today.Parents should engage with their children's learning experiences.Understanding the unique needs of each child is vital.Collaboration with credible partners enhances educational outcomes.School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

In this engaging conversation, Niamh Walsh reflects on her formative years at Alice Smith School in Kuala Lumpur, discussing the profound impact of a diverse education on her personal and professional development. She shares insights from her early career in acting, experiences on set, and the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry. Niamh emphasises the importance of resilience, creativity, and the need for individuals to pursue their passions, regardless of age or circumstance.TakeawaysNiamh had a wonderful upbringing at Alice Smith School.Diversity in education fosters understanding and acceptance.Success is not solely defined by academic achievement.Returning to Alice Smith was a nostalgic experience for Niamh.Her early career was shaped by her passion for drama.Working on Holby City provided invaluable training.The entertainment industry has become more accessible with technology.Niamh values the collaborative nature of acting.Rejection in acting is often not personal.Everyone has a unique voice that the world needs to hear.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

This podcast episode emphasises the balance between embracing heritage and fostering a global perspective. It explores the multifaceted concept of Britishness through the lenses of diplomacy, education, and personal identity. Ruzina Hasan, political councillor at the British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur and a Governor on the school council, shares her insights and discusses with Sian May the importance of British values and education and the evolving nature of British identity in a global context. The conversation delves into the significance of environmental awareness, the role of personalisation in education, and the value of international collaboration to emphasise the importance of embracing one's heritage while fostering a global perspective, particularly for families raising children in diverse cultural environments.TakeawaysBritishness is a source of pride and identity.Education shapes our understanding of British values.Connections between cultures make the world smaller.British education is highly regarded globally.Global citizenship enhances British identity.Environmental education is crucial for future generations. Personalised learning is essential for student growth.Collaboration with international partners enriches education.Raising third-culture children offers unique insights.Embracing heritage while being open to the world is vital.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

We’re exploring purposeful minds and the process to understanding the meaning of purpose and impact at The Alice Smith School. In this episode, Sam Hammett, co-founder of Lily's Homemade Sausages, shares his entrepreneurial journey and the success of his business. He discusses the challenges he faced, including being dyslexic, and how he overcame them. Sam emphasises the importance of persistence and finding your niche in starting a business. He also talks about the marketing strategies and customer service that have contributed to the growth of Lily's Homemade Sausages.TakeawaysPersistence is key in starting and growing a business.Finding your niche and focusing on customer service are important factors in success.Overcoming personal challenges can lead to personal and professional growth.Creating a strong online presence and utilising SEO marketing can help reach a wider audience.Having a supportive partner and team can contribute to the success of a business.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my Lilys Homemade: https://www.lilyshomemade.com/This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

In this episode, Simon Jones sits down with James Worland, Secondary Principal, and Grace Dickinson, Higher Education and Careers Counsellor, to discuss how AI is transforming learning experiences, career guidance, and the skills needed for tomorrow's job market. From personalised education to navigating AI-driven career landscapes, this conversation unpacks the opportunities and challenges shaping our students' futures.TakeawaysAI is a tool that enhances education, not a replacement for human interaction.Personalised learning supported by AI allows for tailored educational experiences.AI can reduce teacher administrative tasks, allowing more focus on student interaction.Students use generative AI for university research and career guidance.Digital literacy skills are essential for students in the age of AI.Partnerships between schools, students, and parents are crucial for navigating AI in education.Career pathways are evolving with AI, emphasising the need for adaptability and resilience.AI is changing the landscape of job opportunities, with new roles emerging.Educators must prepare students for ethical use of AI.AI tools are accessible and should be embraced by both students and parents.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

SummaryIn this conversation, Emil Bernsten shares his journey from being a shy student at Alice Smith School to becoming an engineer at Petronas, working closely with the Mercedes Formula One team. He discusses the importance of education, teamwork, and interpersonal skills in the high-pressure environment of F1, as well as his passion for music as a creative outlet. Emil provides insights into the dynamics of a race weekend, the role of Petronas in F1, and offers advice for aspiring engineers.Highlights:Emil's journey from school to Formula One is inspiring.Education at Alice Smith shaped Emil's character.Teamwork and interpersonal skills are crucial in F1.Working under pressure is a daily reality in F1.Petronas plays a vital role in F1 as a fluid provider.Success in F1 is exhilarating and hard to describe.Agility and quick problem-solving are essential skills.Music serves as a creative escape for Emil.Advice for aspiring engineers includes cultivating interpersonal skills.Respect for rivals is important in the competitive world of F1.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

SummaryThis conversation explores the concept of learning spaces, their evolution, and the importance of designing environments that enhance student experiences. The discussion highlights the historical context of learning spaces, influential figures in the field, and the significance of stakeholder involvement in the redesign process. As part of our school masterplan, this discussion focuses on the potential impact of reimagined learning spaces on educational outcomes and the community as a whole.Key TakeawaysLearning spaces are crucial for enhancing student experiences.Designing spaces intentionally can help students express themselves.Technology integration is key to future learning environments.Stakeholder involvement is essential in redesigning learning spaces.Successful learning spaces can positively impact student agency.The future of education relies on creating innovative learning environments.Links onlineSchool website: www.alice-smith.edu.myThis episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency

We’re exploring purposeful minds and the process to understanding the meaning of purpose and impact at The Alice Smith School with Navin Gopal & Francesco Corbetta.Summary In this conversation, Navin Gopal, from Astroscale, discusses the importance of space sustainability and the need to clean up space debris with Francesco Corbetta, Alice Smith School Physics Teacher, A Level Tutor and Leader of EPQ. Navin explains that Astroscale is dedicated to on-orbit servicing across all orbits and their mission is to remove space junk and extend the life of satellites. Navin emphasizes the implications of not addressing this issue, such as the Kessler syndrome, where collisions between space debris create a dangerous cloud of objects that can hinder space exploration. He also highlights the importance of space for sustainability on Earth, including mining resources, renewable energy, and collecting data for climate change research. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the future of space tourism and the excitement surrounding missions to the Moon and Mars. TakeawaysAstroscale is dedicated to on-orbit servicing and removing space debris across all orbits. Space debris poses a significant threat to space exploration and the sustainability of space activities. Cleaning up space debris is crucial to prevent the Kessler syndrome, where collisions create a cloud of objects that can hinder space activities. Space is important for sustainability on Earth, including mining resources, renewable energy, and collecting data for climate change research. The future of space includes space tourism, missions to the Moon and Mars, and the development of a circular economy in space. Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

We’re exploring purposeful minds and the process to understanding the meaning of purpose and impact at The Alice Smith School. Episode Summary In this podcast episode, host Simon Jones engages with Prakash Ravindran and Sian to delve into the essential topic of student wellbeing. They discuss the critical role of mental health in education, emphasising the necessity of having a trusted adult within the school environment and protecting every child's right to dignity at all times. Together, they explore collaborative strategies within schools to support students, tackle mental health stigma, and highlight the media's influence in educating emotional awareness. Additionally, the conversation underscores the importance of parental involvement in creating a nurturing environment. Tune in for more valuable insights and future directions for wellbeing initiatives that aim to foster resilience and flourishing among our students.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

We’re exploring purposeful minds and the process to understanding the meaning of purpose and impact at The Alice Smith School. Episode Summary Alice Smith School alumna Melissa Tan, a former CEO turned full-time mother, shares her inspiring journey from fitting in at school to studying in Cardiff and Oxford, UK to leading her family's natural latex mattress business (Getha) and ultimately choosing to prioritise family life. In this episode, Melissa candidly discusses the challenges she faced in balancing her professional ambitions with the demands of motherhood, as well as the unexpected joys of being present for her two daughters. She also delves into her passions for mental health and staying active through running. Join Melissa as she invites listeners to connect with her on Instagram, where she shares more about her experiences and insights into navigating life as a CEO mum. Links online Melissa Tan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissatcySchool website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

In this episode, Sian May, with Richard Stockings and Helen Jones, discusses the importance of safeguarding and how it is implemented in their school. They emphasise the need for communication and open dialogue between parents, students, and the school. They also highlight the role of policies, procedures, and training in creating a safeguarding culture. The conversation covers topics such as the role of designated safeguarding leads, the involvement of students in safeguarding, the importance of language and shared understanding, and the engagement of external experts and governors. The episode provides valuable insights and resources for parents and students to understand and support safeguarding efforts.TakeawaysSafeguarding is a shared responsibility between the school, parents, and the community.Open communication and dialogue are essential for effective safeguarding.Policies, procedures, and training play a crucial role in creating a safeguarding culture.Involving students in safeguarding empowers them and promotes their well-being.Engaging external experts and governors enhances safeguarding practices.Understanding the language and terminology of safeguarding is important for parents and students.Parents and students should contact designated safeguarding leads or any trained staff for support and information.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

We’re exploring purposeful minds and the process to understanding the meaning of purpose and impact at The Alice Smith School. In this episode, we are talking to Alumni Natasha Chapplow, a humanitarian-focused professional with extensive involvement in large-scale scientific fieldwork projects.Natasha, an alumna from 2002-2012, has a remarkable story. She took time to ponder her path before deciding on a joint honours in Geology and Oceanography. Pursuing her passion, she earned a PhD. Now, she's a respected Earth Scientist working in Washington DC. Natasha advises governments on climate change and disaster risk management. She emphasises creating your niche. Be competitive, diplomatic, and seek a meaningful career with significant impact.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

We’re exploring purposeful minds and the process to understanding the meaning of purpose and impact at The Alice Smith School. In this outerspace episode, we hear from Mark Chang, alumni of Alice Smith School and aerospace industry veteran. Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markchang2009/This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

In this episode, we’re talking to Kirun Goy, who has taught over 80,000 humans how to live more deliberate lives. Long-time associate of Sian May, Head of School at Alice Smith School, Kirun and Sian discuss Kirun's "brain tools" and how his life changed after he started studying medicine and shifted his focus to neuroscience. Kirun has an impressive background including as a Harvard publishing leadership facilitator and has worked with a number of schools and corporations to integrate his tools to teach students and leaders how to use their brains more efficiently and intentionally for impact.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my Kirun Goy: https://kirungoy.com/ This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

In this episode we’re talking to Daniel Woodroof, Alumni from Alice Smith School, former professional racing driver, Podcast host and Co-founder of Pandan Social.Linkswebsite: https://pandansocial.com/LinkedIn: https://my.linkedin.com/in/danielwoodroofSuited and Booted Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/suited-booted-syok-podcast-eng/id1693032762Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielwoodroof/?hl=en

In this insightful episode, Sian May, our Head of School, engages in a thought-provoking discussion with renowned Positive Education expert, David Bott. The focus of this session is to delve into the core psychological needs of children and how meeting these needs can significantly impact their overall wellbeing. By leveraging principles from Positive Psychology and Wellbeing Science, the conversation aims to provide practical strategies for parents, educators, and the community to help children in thrive emotionally and mentally. Linkswebsite:https://www.thewellbeingdistillery.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidfbott/?originalSubdomain=auBook: 10 Things Schools Get Wrong (And How We Can Get Them Right)

Courageous minds and ventures of purpose with Alice Smith alumnus Tim Jarvis. A courageous explorer, environmental scientist, author, public speaker and filmmaker. www.timjarvis.org/Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

We’re exploring purposeful minds and the process to understanding the meaning of purpose and impact at The Alice Smith School. With Sian May, Head of School and Professor Mushtak Al-Atabi, Provost of Heriot Watt University, Malaysia Working with Heriot Watt University and Professor Mushtak Al-Atabi has been the catalyst for our impact statement workshops and impactful initiatives at Alice Smith School. Contact Sian May or Prof Mushtak by emailing [email protected] Links School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

This is the Alice Smith "Pod on Purpose" podcast, your globally available brain-booster, and you can listen everywhere – even during lunch break. Join us as we chat with game-changers, education rockstars, and worldly explorers!Links onlineSchool website: www.alice-smith.edu.myThis was produced by The Bonjour Agency.